Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding Albertans to protect themselves against West Nile Virus and that residents are at risk of the disease even if they aren't planning to travel to tropical climes.
After being bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus, humans can develop West Nile non-neurological syndrome (formerly known as West Nile fever) or the more serious West Nile neurological syndrome.
Symptoms of non-neurological syndrome can be uncomfortable, including fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, skin rash, swollen glands and headache. For people who develop neurological syndrome, symptoms can be more severe, including tremors, drowsiness, confusion, swallowing problems, high fever, unconsciousness, paralysis and even death.
From 2003 to 2018, 532 cases of West Nile virus were confirmed in Alberta, many of which were acquired here in the province and not travel-related. Of all of these cases, 458 were non-neurological syndrome.
“With exposure to mosquitoes comes the risk of West Nile virus,” says Dr. Christine Kennedy, medical officer of health, Calgary Zone. “Because some mosquitoes carry West Nile virus, it’s important to avoid being bitten at all.”
Whenever engaging in outdoor activities, or even just relaxing outside, all Albertans should take these simple steps to prevent bites and protect themselves from West Nile virus:
- Wear a long-sleeved, light-coloured shirt, pants, and a hat.
- Use an approved insect repellant (e.g. products containing DEET or Icaridin).
- Consider staying indoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
“These steps can make it harder for mosquitoes to find you. And remember: if mosquitoes can’t find you, they can’t bite you,” says Dr. Kennedy.
Albertans can learn more about West Nile virus and the precautions necessary to reduce risk at www.fightthebite.info or by calling Health Link at 811.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
